KR20040020900A - Apparatus for mixing and reacting at least two fluids - Google Patents

Abstract

A novel apparatus for mixing and reacting at least two fluids is disclosed. Excellent mixing and pressure drop characteristics are achieved in an apparatus having at least two supply channels for supplying fluid to the mixing chamber to create a vortex. Alignment of the feed channel is such that fluid is introduced into the chamber in both tangential and radial directions. In the case of gas / liquid mixing, it is particularly advantageous that the liquid flow is injected tangentially and the gas flow is injected radially. The reaction of the fluid may take place in the mixing chamber or in a separate reactor in fluid communication with the mixing chamber outlet. Mixing / reaction devices are particularly useful for reactions where rapid diffusion is important.

Description

A device for mixing and reacting two or more fluids {APPARATUS FOR MIXING AND REACTING AT LEAST TWO FLUIDS}

When mixing at least two fluids, the aim is to achieve a uniform distribution as quickly as possible. Micromixers, Microreactros, New Technology for Modern Chemistry, Wiley-VCH 2000, p. It is advantageous to use a static mixer described by W. Ehrfeld, V. Hessel, H. Lowe at 41-85. Known static mixers achieve a mixing time of several milliseconds to one second by alternatingly generating adjacent layers of fluid in the micrometer range in the case of liquids. Gases provide much faster mixing because of the higher diffusion constants. Unlike dynamic mixers, where turbulent conditions are established, static mixers are pre-determined in geometry so that the width and diffusion path of the fluid layer can be accurately determined. As a result, very precise distribution of mixing time is achieved. This opens up numerous possibilities for optimizing chemical reactions in terms of selectivity, yield and even stability.

An additional advantage of static mixers is that the size of the components is reduced, which can make integration with adjacent equipment such as heat exchangers and reactors much easier. In addition, the optimization of the process may be enhanced due to the forced interaction between two or more components within the confined space. Static mixers are used to form liquid / liquid mixtures and liquid / gas dispersions as well as liquid / liquid mixtures and gas / gas mixers. Static mixers are also known for use in polyphase reactions and phase transfer reactions.

Static mixers operating using the multiple stacking or fluid bed formation principle have a mixing channel structure of 25-40 microns in width in one plane (see pages 64-73). The channel branches into a plurality of individual fluid flows arranged to alternately flow two fluids to be mixed in parallel in opposite directions. Adjacent fluid flows are removed through the slots vertically upwards from the horizontal plane and contact each other. However, using a structured method suitable for mass production, the geometry of the channels and thus the width of the fluid layer can be reduced to a submicron range to a limited extent.

Further reduction of the fluid bed size using the multiple lamination principle is achieved by the so-called geometric focusing. Static mixers using this principle of reacting with dangerous substances include, but are not limited to, Microreactions Technology; Industry prospects; The minutes of the third International Conference on Microreaction Techniques / IMRET3, described by T. M. Floyd in W. Ehrfeld, Springer 2000, pp.171-179. The alternating adjacent channels for the two fluids to be mixed are opened semicircularly outwards from outside to radially, into a funnel-shaped chamber and merge into narrow, long channels. Stacked fluid flows are combined within the chamber and then delivered to narrow channels, thereby reducing the width of the individual fluid layers. Under these laminar flow conditions, the mixture is purely diffused. Thus, the milling time range of mixing time is achieved by reducing the width of the fluid layer to the submicron range. The disadvantage with this shape is that the narrow channel must be long enough to achieve full and intimate mixing. This requires a large structure and promotes relatively high pressure losses.

The present invention relates to a novel apparatus for mixing and reacting at least two fluids. The apparatus has a mixing chamber and at least two conduits for supplying fluid into the mixing chamber in both tangential and radial directions. The reaction zone may be integrated into or separate from the mixing chamber.

1 is a plan view of a mixing chamber through which a plurality of feed tubes are alternately in tangential and radial directions;

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing premixing two fluids in a feed tube prior to injection into a mixing chamber. FIG.

3 is a plan view showing a plurality of feed tubes in which two fluids are mixed and the feed tubes are alternately tangentially and radially around the mixing chamber;

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a static mixer / reactor comprising a stacked plate structure in which individual plates are separated for clarity, the mixer plate being of a mixing chamber with multiple feed channels alternately in tangential and radial directions. Form an open structure, and the reaction plate below the mixer plate forms the open structure of the reactor.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a static mixer / reactor comprising a stacked plate structure in which individual plates are separated for clarity, where the mixer plates may be premixed with two fluids in the feed channel before being injected into the mixing chamber. And the reaction plate on top of the reactor forms an open structure of the reactor.

Unlike these disclosures, the device of the present invention provides a solution to the well-known problem of quickly and uniformly mixing at least two fluids, while maintaining low pressure drop characteristics and an economical structure. Efficient mixing provided is used with chemical reactions. Prior to the reaction, the feed components are mixed in a manner utilizing a vortex or mixing chamber that promotes perfect mixing without significant pressure loss. Of particular interest is a reaction in which extremely good dispersion of the reactants can overcome diffusion limitations. The invention may be used in a wide variety of applications, but is particularly suitable for small or fine mixing operations in combination with reactions.

The present invention relates to a mixing / reaction apparatus for mixing and reacting at least two fluids and a mixing method that overcomes the limitations of high pressure drop and insufficient diffusion. Mixing is accomplished by injecting the flow of individual fluids in the tangential and radial directions around the mixing chamber to provide a wholly flow path. The invention may be used in a wide variety of applications, but in particular the invention is suitable for small mixing operations or fine mixing. The invention may also be combined with a reaction.

In a first embodiment, the invention is a device for mixing a first fluid stream and a second fluid stream. The apparatus has a first supply pipe having a first supply pipe receiving end for receiving the first fluid flow and a first supply pipe discharge end opposite the first supply pipe receiving end. The apparatus also has a second supply line having a second supply line receiving end for receiving the second fluid flow and a second supply line discharge end opposite the second supply line receiving end. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the first feed tube and the second feed tube at the first feed tube discharge end and the second feed tube discharge end. One of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is substantially tangentially through the mixing chamber, and the other of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is nearly radially through the mixing chamber. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber outlet for fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber to release the product flow.

In another embodiment, the present invention is a device for mixing a first fluid stream and a second fluid stream. The apparatus has a first supply pipe having a first supply pipe receiving end for receiving the first fluid flow and a first supply pipe discharge end opposite the first supply pipe receiving end. The apparatus also has a second feed canal having a second feed canal receiving end for receiving the second fluid flow and a second feed canal discharge end opposite the second feed canal receiving end. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber with a catalyst disposed therein. The mixing chamber is in fluid communication with the first supply pipe and the second supply pipe at the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end. One of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is substantially tangentially through the mixing chamber, and the other of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is nearly radially through the mixing chamber. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber outlet for fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber to release the product flow.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is a device for mixing a first fluid stream and a second fluid stream. The apparatus has a first supply pipe having a first supply pipe receiving end for receiving the first fluid flow and a first supply pipe discharge end opposite the first supply pipe receiving end. The apparatus also has a second supply line having a second supply line receiving end for receiving the second fluid flow and a second supply line discharge end opposite the second supply line receiving end. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the first feed tube and the second feed tube at the first feed tube discharge end and the second feed tube discharge end. One of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is substantially tangentially through the mixing chamber, and the other of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is nearly radially through the mixing chamber. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber outlet for in fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber to release a mixed flow of the first fluid and the second fluid. The apparatus also has a reactor having an inlet and an outlet and forming a catalyst holding space, wherein the reactor inlet is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber outlet.

In yet another embodiment, the invention is a device for mixing a first fluid stream and a second fluid stream. The apparatus has a first supply pipe having a first supply pipe receiving end for receiving the first fluid flow and a first supply pipe discharge end opposite the first supply pipe receiving end. The apparatus also has a second supply line having a second supply line receiving end for receiving the second fluid flow and a second supply line discharge end opposite the second supply line receiving end. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the first supply pipe and the second supply pipe at the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end, wherein one of the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end is in the mixing chamber. It is through in a nearly tangential direction, and the other of the first feed pipe discharge end and the second feed pipe discharge end is nearly radially through in the mixing chamber. The apparatus also has a mixing chamber outlet for discharging a mixed flow of the first fluid stream and the second fluid stream from the mixing chamber, the mixing chamber outlet being in fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber. The apparatus also has a reactor having an inlet and an outlet and forming a catalyst holding space, wherein the reactor inlet is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber outlet.

In another embodiment, the present invention is a layered assembly mixing at least two fluids. The layered assembly has an outer surface and an inner surface and has an almost flat cover layer forming a first supply channel and a second supply channel for receiving the first fluid and the second fluid into the layered assembly. The first supply channel and the second supply channel extend from the outer surface to the inner surface to form a first inlet port and a second inlet port. The layered assembly also has an almost flat mixed layer having an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface of the mixed layer being sealably disposed on an inner surface of the capping layer to form a first supply channel. The channel has a first supply channel receiving end in fluid communication with the first supply channel and a first supply channel discharge end opposite the first supply channel receiving end. The cover layer and the mixed layer also form a second supply channel having a second supply channel receiving end in fluid communication with the second supply channel and a second supply channel discharge end opposite the second supply channel receiving end. The cover layer and the mixed layer also form a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the first supply channel discharge end and the second supply channel discharge end, wherein either the first supply channel discharge end or the second supply channel discharge end is in the mixing chamber. It is through in a nearly tangential direction and the other of the first feed channel discharge end or the second feed channel discharge end is in a nearly radial direction within the mixing chamber. The cover layer and the mixed layer are also in fluid communication with the mixing chamber to form a mixing chamber outlet channel that discharges the mixed flow of the first fluid and the second fluid from the mixing chamber.

In another embodiment, the present invention is a layered assembly mixing at least two fluids. The layered assembly has an outer surface and an inner surface and has a substantially flat cover layer forming a first supply channel and a second supply channel for receiving a first fluid and a second fluid into the layered assembly, the first supply channel. And the second supply channel extend from the outer surface to the inner surface to form a first inlet port and a second inlet port. The layered assembly also has an almost flat mixed layer having an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface of the mixed layer being sealably disposed on an inner surface of the capping layer to form a first supply channel. Has a first supply channel receiving end in fluid communication with the first supply channel and a first supply channel discharge end opposite the first supply channel receiving end. The cover layer and the mixed layer are also sealably connected to a second supply having a second supply channel receiving end in fluid communication with the second supply channel and a second supply channel discharge end opposite the second supply channel receiving end. Form a channel. The cover layer and the mixed layer are also sealably connected to form a mixing chamber in which the catalyst is disposed. The mixing chamber is in fluid communication with the first supply channel discharge end and the second supply channel discharge end, wherein either the first supply channel discharge end or the second supply channel discharge end is in a tangential direction within the mixing chamber and in a first tangential direction. The other of the feed channel discharge end or the second feed channel discharge end is through almost radially within the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber outlet channel is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber to discharge the product flow from the mixing chamber.

In another embodiment, the present invention is a method of mixing at least two fluid streams and reacting as necessary. The method includes flowing a first fluid stream through the first supply channel to inject the first fluid stream into the mixing chamber in a substantially radial direction. The method also includes flowing a second fluid stream through the second supply channel to inject the second fluid stream into the mixing chamber in a substantially tangential direction to produce a vortex, and to provide a flow of the mixed first and second fluids. Extracting from the central portion of the vortex. The method also includes reacting the mixed fluid in a reaction chamber as needed.

These and other embodiments and objects will become apparent after reading the detailed description of the invention.

As mentioned, the present invention relates to an improvement in an apparatus for mixing and reacting two or more fluids. The fluid can be broadly any gaseous or liquid substance or a mixture of these substances. Since the fluid also has a dissolved or dispersed solid component, a solution of a slurry of a liquid reactant containing dissolved solids and a slurry, such as solid catalyst particles, can also be applied to the present invention. In addition, fluids comprising a multiphase, such as a gas / liquid mixture, a gas with particles and a three phase slurry, are also suitable. Mixing achieved before the reaction according to the invention includes known dissolution, emulsification and dispersion operations. Thus, the resulting mixture includes solutions, liquid / liquid emulsions and gas / liquid dispersions and solid / liquid dispersions. The mixing / reaction apparatus and method according to the invention is advantageously applied to form a gas / liquid dispersion, in which case at least one fluid introduced into the mixing chamber contains a gas or gas mixture and at least introduced One additional fluid includes a liquid, liquid mixture, solution, dispersion or emulsion.

Mixing / reaction devices according to the invention are used to carry out chemical reactions which are particularly characterized by limited diffusion. As will be described in detail below, the reactant streams may be introduced separately into the mixing chamber or premixed in a feed tube leading to the mixing chamber. The optimal choice depends on the specific properties of the reaction. For example, reactions requiring long residence times are best achieved using premixing, while reactions where non-selective byproducts may be formed without catalyst are best performed by avoiding contact between reactants upstream of the mixing chamber. For example, devices that control chemical reactions, such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow meters, heater elements, or heat exchangers, may be integrated into the mixing / reaction apparatus. In one embodiment of the mixing / reaction apparatus described below, the apparatus includes an assembly of sealably connected layers, which devices may be disposed in layers above or below the mixing chamber and functionally connected to the layers. As mentioned, the mixing / reaction apparatus may further comprise a catalytic material to effect heterogeneous catalytic chemistry.

Depending on the particular application, including chemical reactions where intimate fluid mixing is desired, it is advantageous for various other fluids to be introduced into the mixing chamber. Such replenishment fluids include, for example, chemical stabilizers, emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, reaction promoters, polymerization chain terminators, and the like. It is even possible to introduce a solid or liquid catalyst into the mixing chamber to carry out the desired reaction. Of course, the fluid to be mixed and reacted may contain auxiliary substances which have already been mixed. Whether the catalyst is placed in the mixing chamber and reaction occurs in the mixing chamber, the mixture formed in the mixing chamber is removed via the mixing chamber, preferably the mixing chamber outlet in fluid communication with its central region.

The mixing / reaction device according to the invention for mixing at least two fluids prior to the reaction comprises a mixing chamber and at least two supply tubes disposed around the mixing chamber for injecting fluid into the mixing chamber. The feed tube is open into the mixing chamber in such a way that certain fluid introduced at a defined flow rate forms a fluid spiral flowing concentrically inward. This vortex formation significantly extends the fluid residence time in the mixing chamber, thereby improving mixing characteristics. The achievement of the desired helical and inward liquid flow paths correlates primarily with the fluid introduction angle and fluid dynamic energy into the mixing chamber. A fluid introduced radially or in the case of a cylindrical mixing chamber directly towards its center will not appear in the helical flow path unless another fluid with sufficient kinetic energy in the tangential direction is acting. The present invention achieves particular mixing by introducing tangential and radial directions of the first and second fluids to be mixed. It is preferred that the kinetic energy components of the tangential fluid bend the radial flow components so that a full helical flow pattern with a sufficient number of turns appears to allow these components to be effective mixed. Since one fluid is introduced in a tangential direction and the other fluid is introduced in a radial direction, the ratio of the hydrodynamic energy of the tangential flow to the fluid dynamic energy of the radial flow is 0.5 to provide the desired spiral and inward flow pattern. It is preferable that it is above.

If suitable conditions are established to form the desired helical flow pattern, only fluid flowing along the outermost winding of the spiral is in contact with the lateral inner surface of the mixing chamber. Depending on the shape and dimensions of the mixing chamber, this fluid causes a significant portion of the pressure drop in the mixing chamber due to frictional losses. In contrast, the fluid comprising the inner windings comes into contact with both sides only with the rotating fluid. This fluid includes the previous and next windings flowing in the same direction. For this reason, the pressure loss achieved with the mixer / reactor of the present invention is less than the pressure loss possible with a static mixer using only multiple stacks and having a mixing path of corresponding length. In this case, the fluid flows as an alternating layer in both directions. Thus, the frictional effect between adjacent fluid flows flowing along a straight or curved path is increased. Thus, the advantages associated with using the apparatus of the present invention to mix the fluid prior to the reaction are realized in view of the large contact area and long residence time useful for diffusion mixing within a small structure prior to the reaction, as well as low pressure loss. Although a compact structure in the form of a fine mixer in which the catalyst is contained may be conveniently manufactured, the present invention does not exclude medium or large scale operations.

A further advantage associated with the present invention is that the contact between one winding of the fluid spiral or vortex and the previous and next windings contributes to the diffusion mixing of the reactants. It is desirable that the laminar flow conditions be created from circular flow movement inside the mixing chamber. However, local turbulent conditions can also arise from the overall inward flow of fluid helix or vortex.

To form an inward helical flow path, at least one feed tube is arranged to open at an acute angle or tangential direction into the mixing chamber. Moreover, the fluid may be introduced as a large composition entering the mixer / reactor or as a premixed fluid boundary layer prior to entering one or more feed lines. In general, the tangentially directed fluid maintains laminar flow conditions upon entry into the mixing chamber, thus forming the desired fluid vortex with multiple windings extending perpendicular to the vortex plane.

The feed tube may be arranged to open in one plane around the common mixing chamber. Regardless of the number of feed tubes used, at least two are required, and the feed tubes are preferably distributed symmetrically in the two surroundings of the mixing chamber. These feed tubes can be used to supply the same reactant fluid, for example reactant A is fed separately from each feed duct 1, 3, and reactant B is fed from feed ducts 2, 4. Alternatively, each supply can supply a different fluid, for example supply pipes 1, 2, 3 and 4 can supply fluids A, B, C and D, respectively. In addition, the supply channel may be arranged in a plurality of planes around the mixing chamber. The same or different fluids may be introduced into the mixing chamber in the feed channel disposed in any desired plane. Thus, the fluid may be introduced into a mixing chamber of a general kind, for example one fluid having a circular cross section in the horizontal plane through a supply channel of varying axial heights around the mixing chamber. Such a structure can achieve much longer fluid helix in response to a long residence time in the mixing chamber.

The mixing chamber is preferably substantially cylindrical in shape, and therefore preferably has a substantially circular cross section. It is also possible that the cross section is circular but the diameter of the circle is reduced or increased with the axial height so that the shape of the mixing chamber is actually cone rather than cylindrical. The cross section of the mixing chamber is advantageously determined to be almost horizontal, from which the mixing chamber exits through almost vertically or generally in a vertical direction. Of course, the mixing chamber may have other cross-sectional shapes, in particular rounded shapes such as oval or elliptical. Even shapes such as triangles or other polygons may be acceptable if the corners normally formed at the vertices are rounded. Rounded or curved shapes prevent "dead" areas (i.e. areas with no constant flow) that can be problematic if corners or edges are present. In a preferred case of a mixing chamber formed in a cylindrical shape, it is preferable that at least the height of the supply pipe in the region in which the supply pipe opens into the mixing chamber is equal to or less than the height of the mixing chamber.

In a preferred configuration, the plurality of supply channels are alternately open in tangential and radial directions into the mixing chamber. Certain embodiments of this device are particularly useful for providing gas / liquid dispersions to be reacted. Here, the supply channel for liquid flow is optimally opened into the mixing chamber at an acute angle smaller than the supply channel for gas flow. As a result, the gas stream is broken up into individual gas bubbles by the swirling liquid. It is particularly preferred that the supply channel for the liquid is tangentially open into the mixing chamber and the gas supply channel is radially open into the mixing chamber. This structure promotes the formation of gas / liquid dispersions with small, closely distributed bubble sizes, thus providing a nearly uniform mixture before the reaction.

The mixing / reaction device has a mixing chamber outlet for supplying a mixed fluid flow to the downstream application. The mixing chamber outlet is in fluid communication with a central region of the mixing chamber, preferably its center point, to extract the mixed fluid. For example, if the mixing chamber is cylindrical and has a circular cross section, the mixing chamber outlet extracts the mixed fluid from its center. In a preferred embodiment, the mixing chamber has a substantially circular cross section oriented in the horizontal direction and the mixing chamber outlet is through almost vertically upwards or downwards from the mixing chamber. In view of the specific fluid and its properties, the cross-sectional area of the mixing chamber and the feed channel opened into the mixing chamber is compared so that the cross-sectional area of the outlet is set to allow the formation of the desired fluid vortex flowing inwardly with multiple windings. The mixing chamber outlet tube has a circular cross section and in the case of a pipe or tube the diameter ratio of the mixing chamber to the mixing chamber outlet is greater than five.

If the catalyst used to carry out the reaction of the well mixed reactants is not placed in the mixing chamber or introduced as a fluid stream, a separate reactor is required downstream of the mixing chamber. In this case, the reactor will usually contain the catalyst in the catalyst holding space. It is also possible for the catalyst to be introduced continuously into the reactor, for example as a solid dispersed in a liquid reactant slurry.

If it is also desired to separate the reaction product exiting the reactor, it is also possible to integrate the separator downstream of the reactor. In this case the separator has not only an inlet for the reaction product but also at least two outlets for the overhead and the bottom stream, respectively. Depending on the relative volatility and / or other properties of the reaction feeds, reaction products and by-products, it may also be desirable to recycle the bottom or overhead product back to the mixing chamber. The recycle flow may be introduced into the mixing chamber through a feed tube directed tangentially or radially. Alternatively, it is also possible to premix the recycle stream with one of the reaction streams in the manner described below before introducing the recycle stream into the mixing chamber. Another possibility is to recycle a separate fluid or part thereof to the mixing chamber outlet immediately upstream of the catalyst bed. Of course, the separator may use any of a number of known separation techniques known in the art, including instantaneous separation, distillation, membrane separation, extraction, crystallization, and the like.

In another embodiment, one or more additional fluids enter the mixing chamber through a supply tube that is premixed with either a separate supply tube or with the fluid to be mixed. Such additional fluids may contain auxiliary substances, such as emulsifiers, to stabilize the mixture. Feeding such material using an additional supply channel advantageously opens the supply channel tangentially into the mixing chamber, so in each case there is one flow of additional fluid between adjacent windings of the fluid helix. Alternatively, if the gaseous components are fed into a fluid vortex containing at least one fluid in the mixing chamber using additional supply channels, these gas supply channels are either radially or at an intermediate angle between the tangential and radial directions. It is advantageous to open into. As a result, the gas to be supplied is pulverized into small gas bubbles by the fluid spiral and finely dispersed.

As mentioned above, very good mixing properties are achieved if at least one of the feed tubes provides a nearly tangential injection of fluid into the mixing chamber, and at least one feed tube provides a nearly radial injection. Tangential fluid motion impinging spiral or vortex formation within the mixing chamber breaks up or finely separates the radially flowing fluid. By radial flow is meant a fluid flow towards the center of the mixing chamber, whether the mixing chamber is circular, elliptical or oval. Tangential flow refers to flow directed at right angles to the radial flow at or near the surface of the mixing chamber. Nearly tangential or radial flow means that good mixing properties of the invention may also be achieved when the flow is not exactly tangential or radial but within 30 ° of these directions.

In a preferred embodiment, the mixing / reaction apparatus is provided with a plurality of feed tubes as well as two which alternately reach into the mixing chamber in nearly tangential and almost radial directions. The term " alternatively " means that the tangentially directed feed tube (called T) and the radially directed feed tube (called R) lie in TRTR order in at least one plane around the mixing chamber circumference. The feed channels may also be laid alternately in one or more planes, for example in a two-dimensional chessboard manner around the circumference and length of the mixing chamber. By changing the position at which fluid is introduced into the mixing chamber in both the horizontal and vertical planes, multiple spiral flow paths may be formed that flow concentrically inward. Thus, for example, double or even triple helix types may be achieved. These fluid helices lie together in one plane and around one center in such a way that each winding lies adjacent to each other.

Furthermore, it is preferred that the feed tubes are not only arranged in alternating tangential and radial directions around the mixing chamber, but also in fluid communication alternately with respect to the first and second fluids to be mixed. For example, where it is desired to mix a gas stream with a liquid stream to achieve a chemical reaction, a special result is achieved in which the gas stream and the liquid stream are injected into the mixing chamber in the tangential and radial directions, respectively, from the mixing point of view. Without sticking to any particular mechanism or theory, it is contemplated that the tangentially oriented liquid breaks the gas stream flowing radially into fine bubbles upon entering the mixing chamber. As mentioned above, the kinetic energy of the fluid introduced in the tangential direction is preferably at least 0.5 times the kinetic energy of the fluid introduced in the radial direction. This ensures that the overall formation of inward spirals or vortices provides sufficient residence time for effective mixing.

It is important to note that the entire feed tube need not be oriented in these directions, but only a portion of the feed tube that is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber to impinge the fluid direction into the mixing chamber. For this reason, it is appropriate to refer to the supply pipe as having a receiving end and a discharge end, respectively. The receiving end is in fluid communication with the fluid or feed to be mixed, and the discharge end is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber to ensure direct fluid flow with respect to the mixing chamber. In one possible configuration, the feed channel may be of approximately uniform cross section over its entire length from its receiving end to its discharge end. Substantial reorientation from the receiving end of the feed tube to the discharge end is certainly possible, and may even be desired if the space around the mixing chamber for multiple feed tubes is limited. Alternatively, fluid acceleration, which is often desired to enhance mixing, is conveniently achieved through the narrow portion of the feed tube in the direction from the receiving end to the discharge end. Variations of the particular structure of the narrow feed duct in this manner include those having a funnel, droplet or triangular form.

In another preferred embodiment, the first fluid and the second fluid may be mixed (ie, premixed) before injection into the mixing chamber. In this case, the apparatus may further comprise the elements necessary to achieve such mixing in the feed channel. In the case of the feed channel used to carry out this premix, the feed channel should be long enough to provide good premix while not long enough to promote excessive pressure drop. One particular method involves the use of a distribution manifold so that the flow to be premixed in the feed channel first branches into a plurality of small flows flowing through the distribution pipe. The small flow or starting fluid of these feeds may then be directed to various points within the feed duct inlet, preferably in an order of repeating or interlocking order. By "repeating order" it is meant that in the case of two fluids A, B they are positioned next to each other in a repeating pattern in at least one plane. For example, the ABAB crossing order is a repeating order. Other repeating orders are possible, such as AABAAB. Moreover, the same principle may be used to premix two or more fluid flows. For example, where three fluids (A, B, C) are mixed in a feed channel, the term "repeat order" also includes many possible orders of individual fluid boundary layers, such as ABCABC or ABACABAC. The fluid layer or distribution tube formed may also be placed in repeating order in one or more planes. For example, it may be offset in a two-dimensional chessboard manner. The fluid flow and conduits associated with different fluids are preferably arranged in the same direction parallel to each other.

When using the above-described premixing operation in which two or more flows are mixed before introduction into the mixing chamber, the fluid to be mixed is branched into a plurality of small dispensing flows which are alternately layered or arranged in repeating order before being fed to the feed pipe. . Since the feed ducts generally have a cross sectional area considerably smaller than the sum of the cross sectional areas of the individual dispensing flows fed into the feed ducts, the premixed flows may be referred to as "concentrated" before they are introduced into the mixing chamber. This concentration increases the flow rate of the branched flow and decreases the layer thickness to facilitate the formation of a spiral mixing chamber with inward spirals as much as possible.

The ratio of the sum of the cross sectional areas of the distribution pipes to the cross sectional area of the feed pipes in which the feed pipes merge at the receiving end is between 1.5 and 500. If two or more fluids are premixed in this manner, the manifold used to receive and discharge the disposed fluid flow into a single conduit (ie, feed duct) preferably has a curved surface that is connected to the feed duct. In order to provide optimum mixing properties with minimal pressure drop when premixing is used, the ratio of length to width for the entire feed canal is 1-30, assuming a constant cross-sectional shape. When the feed pipe cross section is changed, for example when the feed pipe is narrowed near the mixing chamber, this ratio is applied as far as it relates to the width of the feed pipe discharge end in fluid communication with the mixing chamber.

As noted above, a fluid helix that flows concentrically inward is formed, and the resulting mixture is removed from the center of the fluid vortex. In certain preferred embodiments where premixing is used, three fluids are mixed prior to reaction using the mixing / reaction apparatus of the present invention, and the second fluid and the third fluid are premixed upstream of the second feed canal. In this embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of second dispensing conduits and a plurality of third dispensing conduits that respectively divide the second fluid and the third fluid. As described above, the second and third fluid distribution conduits arranged in an iterative order to exert a force prior to injection into the mixing chamber on each boundary layer of the second and third fluid flows in close proximity to the second supply conduit. Manifolds can be used to store the The first fluid may be fed to the mixing chamber without mixing through the first supply conduit. This particular embodiment is particularly advantageous when the second and third fluids are liquids tangentially injected into the mixing chamber and the first fluids are gases injected radially into the mixing chamber.

Certain types of mixers / reactors, in which good mixing characteristics are achieved in accordance with the above-mentioned broad apparatus, comprise two or more planar layers which are almost parallel and sealed or fluidically coupled. In such devices, conduits, mixing chambers and other fluid guide mechanisms are formed by sealingly connecting between adjacent layers. For example, these layers may be formed from plates which are recessed or recessed or pressed. When joined in a fluid sealed structure, adjacent plates surround the recesses and openings to form structures such as channels that can receive fluid flow under pressurized conditions. For example, some structures, such as mixing chambers, may be completely formed by sealingly connecting two or more plates depending on the thickness of the plate and the height of the chamber. If the mixing chamber is simply indented to one side or one surface of a single plate and not cut, the outlet structure of the mixing chamber extends from the mixing chamber to the plate surface opposite the surface on which the mixing chamber is indented. It may be included in the same plate. If the mixing chamber is fully cut into the plate, the outflow structure of the mixing chamber requires the use of one or more other plates in hermetic connection. Some structures, such as feeding conduits or the like, completely penetrate two or more plates.

Regardless of the number of each plate used in any given environment, in one embodiment of the present invention the mixer / reactor device comprises two or more discontinuous layers and features the function of these layers. Specific functions that occur in several substantially flat layers include the dispensing, conveying and mixing of the feed component. In the particular case in which the plates are used to form the device, the individual layers may comprise one or more plates, and if possible using one particular molding technique, one or more functions or one or more layers may be present in the form of a single plate. It may be.

The first layer is a substantially flat cover layer used to supply the external fluid flow to be mixed to the internal structure of the mixer / reactor device. The cover layer has both an outer surface and an inner surface and forms first and second feeding channels for receiving the first and second fluids into the assembly. The first and second feeding channels extend from the outer surface to the inner surface to form first and second inlet ports. The second layer is a substantially flat mixed layer having an upper surface and a lower surface, and the upper surface of the mixed layer is provided sealingly on the inner surface of the cover layer. A fluid seal is connected between these layers to form a first feed channel having a first receiving end in circulation with the first feeding channel and a first outlet end opposite the first receiving end. Further, sealingly connecting between the cover layer and the mixed layer forms a second supply channel having a second receiving end that passes through the second feeding channel and a second outlet end that faces the second receiving end. This connection also forms a mixing chamber which flows with the outlet ends of the first and second feed channels, in which case one of the outlet ends of the first or second feed channels extends almost tangentially to the mixing chamber. And the other of the outlet ends of the first or second feed channel extends almost radially to the mixing chamber. In addition, the connection between the two layers forms an outlet channel of the mixing chamber that flows with the mixing chamber and discharges the mixed flow of the first and second fluids from the mixing chamber. As mentioned earlier, a catalyst is placed inside the mixing chamber to produce the desired chemical reaction. If the catalyst is not in the mixing chamber, the mixed feed component is reacted in a separate structure.

In this layer configuration, the structure is formed by connecting two or more plates. A recess, such as a groove or blind hole, is a conventional structure surrounded by a material of one plane and perpendicular to this plane. The structure forming the channel, such as a fluid supply channel or the like, may be formed as a slot extending to a predetermined depth partially or completely through the plate. Openings, such as slots or holes, pass through one plane of material, that is to say only laterally surrounded by one plane of material. Sealing the other layers sealingly results in the open structure formed by the recesses and openings forming a fluid guide structure such as a feed channel, mixing chamber or feeding channel or the like. A feed channel is formed in the cover layer and / or the base layer that fluidly closes the layered assembly to the outside, the feed channel being an opening or groove for the fluid to be mixed and / or one or more outlets for the formed mixture. It may be a port.

If the layered assembly comprises loaded plates, these plates must be made of a material that is sufficiently inert to the reaction product to be produced with the process fluid to be mixed. This contributes to avoiding corrosion, erosion, deformation, cracking or expansion / contraction of the plates, or other harmful consequences that may occur due to exposure to the fluid under pressurized conditions. The inert material constituting the device is preferably selected from the group consisting of polymers (eg polyvinyl chloride or polyethylene, etc.), metals, alloys, glass, quartz, ceramics and semiconductor materials. Depending on the properties required in the various stages of mixing and / or reaction, the same or different materials may be used for the different plates. Optionally, at least the cover plate, channel plate, distributor plate and mixer plate are formed of a transparent material, in particular glass, quartz fat or photosensitive glass, so that the mixing action can be easily observed. When using a mixer / reactor for small scale operations, the thickness of the plates is preferably between 10 microns and 5 millimeters. Of course, thicker plates would be appropriate for the formation of the mixing chamber. In other cases, two or more plates are used to form chambers or elongated channels. Suitable methods of fluidically connecting the plates to each other include, for example, pressing, welding, sealing, adhesive bonding, or anodic bonding. Suitable methods for constructing the plate include known precision mechanical or micromechanical manufacturing methods such as, for example, laser flux, spark erosion, injection molding, stamping, or electrodeposition. In addition, other standard industrial methods may be suitable, including at least a structuring step using high energy spinning and electrodeposition and, if desired, molding.

In certain embodiments of the invention where the mixer / reactor device is formed in a plate-loaded configuration, the conduit structure is usually formed as a channel in the plate. The open structure of the feed channel and the mixing chamber is formed by one or more plates that serve as mixer plates. This open structure is closed by a cover plate that is fluidly connected to the mixer plate, in which case the cover plate is formed with a feeding channel for receiving the fluid to be mixed from a source upstream of the mixer / reactor. Likewise, the open structure formed by the various other plates described below is closed when it is hermetically coupled to one or more other adjacent plates. Also, if not necessary, but possible, a channel may be formed in the cover plate, ie the outlet channel of the mixing chamber for discharging the mixed fluid. Alternatively, when using additional plates, feed channels and / or outlet channels of the mixing chamber may be formed in the additional plates rather than in the cover plates. Since these plates themselves are most easily manufactured to a constant thickness or depth, it would be beneficial if the feed channels and / or mixing chambers formed in these plates were of the same depth.

As mentioned in the description of the entire apparatus, the feed channel may be uniform in cross section and narrow in the direction leading to the mixing chamber (ie, from each receiving end to the outlet end of the feed channel). Depending on whether the width of the supply channel is narrow or the cross-sectional area remains substantially constant, the plane in which the width of the supply channel measured at each point into the mixing chamber of the supply channel and the fluid vortex formed during operation are present It is advantageous for the ratio of the width of the mixing chamber to 1:10 or less. In addition, for mixing chambers having substantially cylindrical or nearly circular cross sections, the ratio of the diameter of the mixing chamber to the width of the outlet end of each feed channel is greater than ten. In the case of a conical shaped mixing chamber, the ratio uses the average diameter of the mixing chamber.

In accordance with the overall description and function of the apparatus described above, the mixer plate may be formed with an open structure of a plurality of supply channels, each of which open alternately with the mixing chamber in a tangential / radial direction. In this particular case, additional plates, such as channel plates and distributor plates, can be used to guide the first and second fluids alternately to the supply channel. One side of the channel plate is connected to the mixer plate to form an open structure of the plurality of first and second dispensing ports, one end of which is in circulation with the first and second fluid distribution structures formed by the distributor plate, respectively. do. The distributor plate is connected to the face of the channeling plate, which is not connected to the mixer plate, and the first and second dispensing structures are in fluid communication with the first and second injection channels, respectively. The ends of the first and second dispensing ports, which are not in fluid communication with the fluid dispensing structure, are then in fluid communication with the feed channel of the mixer plate, respectively, to spatially alternate the first and second fluid around the mixing chamber. To be injected.

In addition, it is clearly possible to use channeling and distributor plates for other types of functions. For example, in the broadly defined apparatus described above, two fluid streams may be premixed upstream of the feed channel and then introduced into the mixing chamber together with a third feed. In this case, if the fluid flows to be mixed are referred to as second and third fluids, the channeling plate forms the opening structure of the plurality of second and third dispensing ports in fluid communication with each fluid dispensing structure. The dispensing port can advantageously form a row of holes for each of the second and third fluids to be supplied, each hole being precisely assigned to one supply channel. Thus, when premixed as described above, the holes may be used alternately to supply the second and third fluids to the mixing chamber, respectively, through the common supply channel.

In addition, the mixer plate forms a focusing chamber that alternately receives the divided flows of the first and second fluids and combines them into a single feed channel. In many respects, the concentration chamber performs a function similar to that of the manifold described in the general apparatus of the present invention. The first fluid may be introduced into the mixing chamber through a separate supply channel used only for this first fluid, or may be mixed with either of the other two fluids. Thus, while the foregoing embodiments present a preferred mixer / reactor device for carrying out the reaction, multiple or more flows can be mixed and reacted according to the present invention regardless of the premixing of the fluid in the feed channel. There are virtually unlimited variations. In addition, the plates may be arranged in various ways to facilitate different types of operation. For example, if the mixing function employs premixing of multiple feed channels or inlet flows, it is preferable to use a distributor plate as described above. This distributor plate may be disposed between the cover plate and the mixer plate or below the mixer plate. In addition, using an appropriate fluid guide structure, the channeling plate need not be placed between the mixer plate and the distributor plate. Rather, the channeling plate can be placed above or below the plate as desired.

The components of the present invention have been described with reference to mixer / reactor devices and methods for generating chemical reactions. Depending on the particular application and process conditions, the present invention may employ any of the many combinations of components and features described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Specific preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. These examples are intended to make the invention clearer and not to imply inappropriate limitations on the overall broad scope of protection of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. As shown in two or more figures, similar features of the invention use the same reference numerals, but are indicated using quotation marks (').

1 shows a top view of a preferred mixing chamber 14 in which a tangential feed tube 10 and a radial feed tube 12 are connected. The tangentially directed feed tube 10 imparts the rotational or helical motion required to achieve proper residence time and mixing to the fluid. The kinetic energy of the fluid introduced in the tangential direction is sufficiently large compared to the kinetic energy of the fluid introduced in the radial direction such that a portion of the fluid introduced in the radial direction is directly at the center of the mixing chamber outlet (not shown) of the mixing chamber 14. Switch from heading along the spiral path. Preferably, in order to effect this movement, the kinetic energy of the tangential flow fluid should be at least 0.5 times greater than the kinetic energy of the radial flow fluid. Thus, when the embodiment of FIG. 1 is used for liquid / gas mixing and subsequent reactions, the gas is radially in the liquid and the tangentially into the mixing chamber because the kinetic energy of the flowing liquid is substantially greater than the kinetic energy of the gas. It is preferable to introduce.

The initial radial fluid may or may not be bent in a path that is sufficiently curved as the tangential fluid, depending on the relative kinetic energy of the two fluids. In other words, the initial radial fluid can be wound along the path to the outlet of the mixing chamber as many times as the tangential fluid, or less frequently.

In most cases, tangential guide conduits are provided for the first fluid and radial guide conduits are provided for the second fluid. Thus, the first fluid will be dispensed to each tangential guide conduit 10 using a plurality of first fluid distribution conduits (not shown). Similarly, the second fluid will be dispensed into each radial guide conduit 12 using a plurality of second fluid distribution conduits (not shown). Determining that the conduit is guided in a tangential or radial direction is based on the orientation of the conduit discharge end 18 leading to the supply chamber.

Tangential guiding conduits 10 and radial guiding conduits 12 are both shown as having closed ends in plan view. Thus, the fluid injected into the feed conduit at its receiving end 16 enters up or down in the cross section shown. Of course, it is possible for the feed conduit to be injected through the conduits in the same plane (as well as the same plate).

2 shows an embodiment of the present invention, in which a tangential supply conduit 10 'is injected through two injection conduits 26, 28 which are coplanar with the mixing chamber 14'. As in FIG. 1, the mixer / reactor device includes a radial feed tube 12 ′ that is also in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 14. In this embodiment, the radial feed canal 12 'can be used to supply the first fluid A to the mixing chamber, while the tangential feed canal 10' can be used for the second fluid B and the third fluid. It can be used to feed the mixed flow of (C). The second fluid (B) and third fluid (C) flows may be distributed in a large number of smaller flows, respectively, using a plurality of second and third fluid distribution conduits 20, 22. These distribution conduits engage each other at the outlet of the manifold 24 to premix the second fluid B and the third fluid C upstream of the tangential feed tube 10 '. Although the inlet of the manifold 24 is in fluid communication with the second and third distribution conduits 20, 22, the outlet is only in fluid communication with the supply conduit 10 ′ at the receiving end 16 ′, the end Is not in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 14 '. The mixing chamber outlet 19 extends up or down the plane of the cross section of the mixing chamber 14 ′, releasing the flow of the mixed fluid.

In FIG. 2, a supply conduit 10 ′ which supplies a mixed fluid flow to the mixing chamber 14 ′ is a conduit 26 used to supply a second fluid B and a third fluid C to be mixed. , 28) narrower than any of them. Also shown in FIG. 2 is a tangential feed tube 10 ′ having a width smaller than the sum of the widths of the distribution conduits 20, 22 leading to the outlet of the manifold 24. Of course, the fluid velocity entering the mixing chamber is inversely proportional to the area of the feed duct at the injection point. When a narrow supply channel is used or when the supply pipe narrows in the direction leading to the mixing chamber 14 'as shown for the radial feed tube 12', the fluid velocity into the mixing chamber 14 'is accelerated, The mixing properties are improved overall.

FIG. 3 shows another embodiment where fluid entering the mixing chamber 14 ′ through the radial conduit 12 ′ is premixed in a similar manner to fluid entering through the tangential conduit 10 ′. In this case, the plurality of distribution conduits 30 in fluid communication with the fourth fluid D and the plurality of distribution conduits 32 in fluid communication with the fifth fluid E carry these fluids in smaller flows. Each is used to divide into. These flows are distributed in engagement with each other at the outlet of the second manifold 34 leading to the radial feed canal 12 ′. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, the velocity of the fluid is ascertained from the tangential and radial conduits 10 ′, 12 ′ which are relatively narrow compared to each injection conduit 26 ′, 28 ′, 36, 38. (14 ') increases before being introduced into. In addition, the mixing chamber outlet 19 'extends up or down the plane of the cross section of the mixing chamber 14' to release the flow of the mixed fluid.

4 shows a laminated plate apparatus for mixing and reacting fluids in a manner consistent with the apparatus of FIG. 1. A plurality of two tangential conduits 10 'and a radial conduit 12' are in fluid communication alternately by two mixing chambers 14 'and two separate fluid flows, so that one fluid Only in the tangential direction, the other fluid is introduced into the mixing chamber 14 'only in the radial direction. 4 shows a particular type of mixer / reactor including a fluid tight plate stack in which the plate is shown in a separated state for ease of understanding. In this configuration, the cover plate 40 or layer forms the opening structure of the injection channels 42, 44 that receive each fluid individually. In this case the channel is in the form of a hole extending through the cover plate 40 to provide fluid communication beneath the plate, i.e., the distributor plate 46 and the individual fluid.

The distributor plate 46 or layer forms an open structure of the first fluid distribution structure 48 and the second fluid distribution structure 50 in which only fluid is in communication with their respective feeding channels 42, 44. These fluid dispensing structures 48, 50 extend through the distributor plate 46, and the first fluid and the second fluid at points separate from both the plurality of first dispensing ports 52 and the second dispensing port 54. Stagger fluid communication. The open structure of these fluid dispensing ports 52, 54 is formed by channel forming plates 56 or layers connected at one side just below the distributor plate 46. The fluid dispensing ports 52, 54 according to this example are holes extending through the channel forming plate 56. Accordingly, the fluid dispensing ports 52, 54 are in fluid communication with the first fluid dispensing structure 48 and the second fluid dispensing structure 50, respectively, at one end and the opposite end thereof, and also in a tangential direction of the supply channel ( 10 'and staggered in fluid communication with the radially feeding channel 12', respectively. Specifically, fluid distribution ports 52, 54 are in fluid communication with feed channels 10 ′, 12 ′ at their respective receiving ends 16 ′.

As in FIG. 1, the tangentially directed feed channel 10 ′ and the discharge end 18 ′ of the radially directed feed channel 12 ′ are in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 14 ′ to provide a first fluid and The flow of the second fluid is introduced into the chamber. The structure of the mixing chamber 14 'and the plurality of supply channels 10', 12 'with the receiving end 16' and the discharge end 18 ', respectively, is defined by the mixer plate 58, the upper surface of which is Is connected to the bottom surface of the channel forming plate 56. The discharge ends 18 'of the feed channels 10, 12 are alternately guided tangentially and radially into the mixing chamber 14'. Finally, the outlet 19 'of the mixing chamber in fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber 14' extends vertically from the mixer plate 58 to allow for the release of the mixed fluid flow. The mixing chamber outlet 19 ′ in this embodiment is an additional plate, a hole extending through the transfer plate 60, which is connected at its upper surface to the lower surface of the mixer plate 58. The feed channels 42, 44 as well as the outlet 19 ′ of the mixing chamber may be threaded to allow connection between additional conduits and equipment within the overall treatment plan. Otherwise they may be suitable for use with various fittings and may be bonded thereto by bonding, brazing or other known means.

4 illustrates the use of both mixer plate 58 and transfer plate 60 when mixing chamber 14 ′ and feed channels 10 ′, 12 ′ completely pass through mixer plate 58. . The assembly of FIG. 4 by stamping or etching the structure of the mixing chamber 58 and feed channels 10 ', 12' into the mixer plate so that only the outlet 19 'of the mixing chamber extends through both sides of the mixer plate 58. It is also possible to configure. Thus, in the case of considering a laminated plate arrangement as a layered assembly characterized in that each layer functions separately in a broader sense, the mixed layer as shown in FIG. 4 has both the mixer plate 58 and the transfer plate 60. Include. However, by imprinting the mixing chamber 14 'and feed channels 10', 12 'into the mixer plate 58, the mixing layer can clearly have only one plate. Likewise, it is possible to form another layer using one or more plates, and even to have a single plate that performs one or more functions.

As mentioned above, the apparatus of the present invention can be used to effect chemical reactions in the mixing chamber 14 'by placing the catalyst therein. Otherwise, the reaction between the fluid and the mixing chamber can be completely transferred using a separate reaction plate 62 which forms an open structure of the reactor 64 with an inlet at one or one side and an outlet at the other end of the reaction plate 62. Can be kept separate. Thus, reactor 64 as shown extends completely through reaction plate 62. The inlet of the reactor is in fluid communication with the outlet 19 'of the mixing chamber. A support plate 66 is positioned below the reaction plate 62 to provide a reactant outflow channel 68 to direct the reaction product out of the layered assembly or to another structure within the assembly (eg, a separator). Let's do it. Reactant outlet channel 68 is in fluid communication with the reactor outlet.

The reactor 64 formed by the sealing connection between the reaction plate 62 and the transfer plate 60 may be provided with means for holding the catalyst therein, such as a screen or other porous medium. In general, the catalyst is maintained in reactor 64 by placing such media under the reactor 64. Such media are supported by the ring-shaped surface of the upper surface of the support plate 66 formed in the reactor when the smaller reactant outlet channel 68 is aligned with the outlet opening of the reactor 64. Otherwise, instead of using separate reaction plates 62 and support plates 66 to include the reaction layer, a single plate sealingly disposed below the transfer plate 60 performs the function of the reaction layer. It is also possible. In this case, the reactor does not pass completely through a single plate, instead it is stamped into the plate to the desired depth below the plate thickness. Instead, the outlet channel of the reactor extends through from the bottom of the reactor to the opposite side of the plate. As shown, the transfer plate 60, reaction plate 62 and support plate 66 have a thickness sufficient to separate the mixing function and the reaction function, provide a catalyst holding space, and transfer the reaction function to another possible downstream. Further separates the function of (e.g., momentary disadvantage).

FIG. 5 illustrates another plate stack static mixer / reactor device corresponding to the manner in which the fluid is mixed according to the device of FIG. 2. The tangentially directed feed channel 10 'and the radially directed feed channel 12' are guided into the mixing chamber 14 'and through the discharge end 18' of the feed channels 10, 12 '. Communicate with the chamber. In FIG. 5, the first fluid feeding channel 42 ′ is in fluid communication with the receiving end 16 ′ of the radially feeding feed channel 12 ′, which narrows in the direction leading to the mixing chamber 14 ′. . A cover plate 40 'is provided with a second feed channel 26' and a third feed channel 28 'for receiving the second and third fluids to be mixed, as well as the open structure of the first fluid feed channel 42'. Also forms an open structure. The cover plate also defines a reactant outlet channel 68 ′ extending vertically upward from the plane defining the cross section of the mixing chamber 64. Reactant outlet channel 68 ′ directs the reaction product out of the layered assembly, or to additional structure (eg, a separator) within the assembly. Reactant outlet channel 68 'is in fluid communication with the reactor outlet.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5, the reactor utilizes a separate reaction plate 62 'that forms an open structure of the reactor 64' with one inlet or one end of the reaction plate 62 'and an outlet at the other end. By separating from the mixing chamber. Thus, reactor 64 as shown extends completely through reaction plate 62. In this case, the reaction plate 62 'is disposed under the cover plate 40' and the inlet of the reactor at the bottom of the reaction plate 62 is the outlet of the mixing chamber extending upward from the mixing chamber 14 '. In fluid communication with (19 '). A transfer plate 60 ′ is disposed below the reaction plate 62 ′ to provide a mixing chamber outlet 19 ′ in fluid communication with the inlet of the reactor 64. The outlet 19 ′ of the mixing chamber is in fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber, releasing the mixed flow of fluid.

Just below the cover plate 62 is a mixer plate 58 'which forms an open structure of the mixing chamber 14', the tangentially facing feed channel 10 'and the radially facing feed channel 12'. It is connected below. Each of these feed channels has a receiving end 16 'and a discharge end 18' opposite the end. The action of the discharge end 18 ′ of a particular supply channel in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 14 ′ determines whether the supply channel is tangential or radial. The mixer plate 58 'also forms an open structure of the concentrating chamber 24' with inlets and outlets, where the inlets of the concentrating chamber are arranged in a plurality of second fluid distribution channels 20 'arranged in engagement with each other. ) And a plurality of third fluid distribution channels 22 '. The outlet of the concentrating chamber is in fluid communication with the receiving end of the feed channel 10 'facing in the tangential direction.

Below the mixer plate 58 ′ of the lower surface is directly connected a plurality of second dispensing ports 54 ′ and a channeling plate 56 which also forms a plurality of third dispensing ports 55. At one end of each second dispensing port 54 ', a second fluid dispensing structure 50' is in fluid communication. The opposite end of each second dispensing port is in communication with a second dispensing channel 20 'which is via a concentration chamber 24'. Similarly, one end of each third dispensing port 55 is in fluid communication with a third fluid dispensing structure 51. Opposite ends of each third dispensing port 55 are in fluid communication with a third dispensing channel 22 'which is in communication with the concentrating chamber 24'. This structure enables premixing of the second and third fluids before they are introduced into the mixing chamber 14 'as well as increasing the flow rates of the second and third fluids after mixing.

As a result, the mixer / reactor may break open structures of the second fluid distribution structure and the third fluid distribution structure 50 ', 51 in fluid communication with the second fluid supply channel and the third fluid supply channel 26', 28 '. Each base plate 61 'is formed. Unlike the feed channels of FIG. 4, these feed channels 26 ', 28' extend through one or more single plates, effectively separating the mixer plate 58 'and the channeling plate 56' in addition to the cover plate 40 '. Penetrates. The upper surface of the base plate 61 'is sealably connected to the lower surface of the channeling plate 56'. The embodiment of FIG. 5 includes a plurality of second distribution channels 20 'and a third distribution channel 22', but also requires a second distribution port 54 'and a third distribution port 55 without the need for a distribution channel. It is also possible to communicate directly with the inlet of the concentration chamber 24 '.

In the following, examples are provided to illustrate certain aspects of the invention without limiting the broad scope described in the claims.

Example 1-5

Static mixers, including the structure of a laminated plate and using the above-mentioned dust collector mixing principle, are composed of glass and dust formation is observed under various conditions. Water and air were injected into the mixing chamber in tangential and radial directions, respectively, relative to the mixing chamber. A high speed camera for processing digital images was used to observe whether a helical flow of flowing liquid was achieved. The path of gas bubbles in the water stream was easily determined by observing. The results of these experiments are summarized in Table 1.

Yes Water flow rate (ml / hr) Air flow rate (ml / hr) Kinetic energy ratio of water / air Dust collection formation (Y / N) One 100 7,800 0.04 N 2 600 12,000 0.66 Y 3 900 12,000 1.49 Y 4 600 3,600 7.41 Y 5 900 3,600 16.7 Y

From these results, the desired spiral flow formation was obtained with a dynamic energy ratio of liquid / gas of at least 0.66. The lower limit of the dynamic energy ratio of the fluid flowing in the tangential / radial direction is assumed to be 0.5. When the flow stagnation changes from laminar to turbulent, the throughput of the tangential fluid flows much higher, which can prevent the formation of dust. However, even in this case, complete mixing still occurs.

Claims (22)

An apparatus for mixing a first fluid stream and a second fluid stream, A first supply pipe having a first supply pipe receiving end for receiving the first fluid flow and a first supply pipe discharge end opposite to the first supply pipe receiving end; A second supply pipe having a second supply pipe receiving end receiving the second fluid flow and a second supply pipe discharge end opposite to the second supply pipe receiving end; A mixing chamber in fluid communication with the first supply pipe and the second supply pipe at the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end, wherein one of the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end is in a substantially tangential direction within the mixing chamber; A mixing chamber, wherein the other of the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end is substantially radially through in the mixing chamber; Mixing chamber outlet for fluid communication with the central region of the mixing chamber to release a mixed flow of first and second fluid flows from the mixing chamber Apparatus having a. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is formed by a layered assembly, the layered assembly comprising: A substantially flat covering layer having an outer surface and an inner surface and forming a first feeding channel and a second feeding channel for receiving the first fluid and the second fluid into the layered assembly, wherein the first feeding channel and the second feeding channel are A cover layer extending from the outer surface to the inner surface to form a first inlet port and a second inlet port, A first supply channel having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface being sealably disposed on an inner surface of the cover layer, the first supply channel providing a first supply pipe, the first supply pipe discharge end and the second supply pipe discharge end and the fluid; An almost flat mixed layer forming a second supply channel providing a mixing chamber in communication with the second supply pipe, Mixing chamber outlet channel formed by an almost flat layer and in fluid communication with the mixing chamber to provide the mixing chamber outlet Apparatus having a. The device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the capping layer and the mixing layer comprise one or more plates of a fluid tightly stacked structure. The device according to claim 1, wherein the plate has a thickness of 10 μm to 5 mm. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mixing chamber further comprises a catalyst disposed therein. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a reactor having an inlet and an outlet and forming a catalyst holding space, wherein the reactor inlet is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber outlet. The device of claim 1, wherein the shape of the mixing chamber is substantially cylindrical and the ratio of the diameter of the mixing chamber to the diameter of the mixing chamber outlet is greater than five. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mixing chamber has a substantially circular cross section in a substantially horizontal plane through which the mixing chamber outlet is nearly vertical. The outlet of claim 2, wherein the mixing chamber outlet extends almost vertically from the mixer plate to the outer surface of the capping layer to discharge the mixed flow of the first fluid and the second fluid from the assembly. Forming a port. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A plurality of first fluid distribution tubes distributing the first fluid flow; A plurality of second fluid distribution tubes for distributing a second fluid flow, A plurality of first supply pipes and second supply pipes having a receiving end in fluid communication with the first fluid distribution pipe and the second fluid distribution pipe, respectively, and discharge ends alternately tangentially and nearly radially alternately into the mixing chamber; It further comprises a device. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the first supply pipe or the second supply pipe is narrowed in the direction from the supply pipe receiving end to the supply pipe discharge end, and at the discharge end of the first supply pipe and the second supply pipe. Wherein the ratio of length to width is from 1 to 30. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A plurality of second fluid distribution tubes for distributing a second fluid flow, A plurality of third fluid distribution tubes distributing a third fluid flow; Manifold with inlet and outlet And wherein the manifold inlet is in fluid communication with the second and third distribution pipes arranged in repeating order, and the manifold outlet is in fluid communication with the receiving end of the second supply pipe. 10. The mixing chamber of claim 2, wherein the mixing chamber is in fluid communication with a plurality of supply channels, each supply channel having a receiving end and an outlet end, the discharge ends of the supply channels being alternately into the mixing chamber. And through a substantially tangential and nearly radial direction, the layered assembly further comprises a substantially flat distribution layer having a top surface and a bottom surface, the top surface of the distribution layer being sealably disposed and distributed on the inner surface of the cover layer. The bottom face of the layer is disposed sealably on the top face of the mixed layer, the distribution layer being interposed between the lid layer and the mixed layer, A plurality of first dispensing ports each in fluid communication with the first fluid dispensing structure at one end and individually in fluid communication with the alternating receiving end of the fluid supply channel at the opposite end; A plurality of second dispensing ports each in fluid communication with the second fluid dispensing structure at one end and individually in fluid communication with the alternating receiving end of the fluid supply channel at the opposite end and not in fluid communication with the first dispensing port; The first fluid dispensing structure is in fluid communication with the first feeding channel, the second fluid dispensing structure is in fluid communication with the second feeding channel, and the top surface of the mixed layer is sealably sealable on the bottom surface of the distribution layer. Wherein the device is disposed to form a feed channel. 10. The cover layer of claim 2, wherein the cover layer further defines a third feed channel for receiving a third fluid into the assembly, wherein the third feed channel extends from the outer surface of the cover layer. Extending to an inner surface to form a third inlet port, the layered assembly further comprising a substantially flat distribution layer having a top surface and an inlet surface, wherein the top surface of the distribution layer is sealably disposed on an interior surface of the cover layer The lower surface of the distribution layer is sealably disposed on the upper surface of the mixed layer, the distribution layer is interposed between the lid layer and the mixed layer, A plurality of second dispensing ports each having a second dispensing port inlet end and a second dispensing port outlet end in fluid communication with the second fluid dispensing structure; A plurality of third dispensing ports each having a third dispensing port inlet end and a third dispensing port outlet end in fluid communication with the third fluid dispensing structure; And the second fluid distribution structure is in fluid communication with the second feeding channel, the third fluid distribution structure is in fluid communication with the third feeding channel, and the top surface of the mixed layer is sealably sealable on the bottom surface of the distribution layer. Arranged to form a concentrating chamber having an inlet and an outlet, the concentrating chamber inlet being in fluid communication with the second dispensing port outlet end and the third dispensing port outlet end arranged in a repeating order, the concentrating chamber outlet receiving a second supply channel And in fluid communication with the end. A method of mixing at least two fluid streams, Flowing the first fluid stream through the first feeding channel to inject the first fluid stream into the mixing chamber in a substantially radial direction; Flowing a second fluid stream through the second feed channel to inject the second fluid stream into the mixing chamber in a substantially tangential direction to produce a vortex; Extracting a flow of mixed first and second fluids from the central portion of the vortex Method comprising a. The method of claim 15, wherein the ratio of the kinetic energy of the second fluid to the kinetic energy of the first fluid is at least 0.5 to produce a fluid vortex in the mixing chamber. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the mixing chamber is substantially cylindrical in shape. 18. The method of any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising flowing a plurality of fluid flows through the plurality of feed channels to inject fluid flows alternately in the tangential and radial directions into the mixing chamber. Way. 19. The method of any one of claims 15 to 18, further comprising accelerating the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow through a feed channel in the direction of the mixing chamber. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, Distributing a second feed channel between the plurality of second dispensing flows; Distributing a third fluid flow between the plurality of third fluid dispensing flows; Placing the second dispensing flow and the third dispensing flow in a repeating order in the second feeding channel prior to injection into the mixing chamber. It further comprises a. 21. The method of any one of claims 15-20, wherein the first fluid stream is a gas and the second fluid stream is a liquid. 22. The method of any one of claims 15 to 21, further comprising reacting the mixture of fluids in a reaction chamber.